The Social Security Administration (SSA) Title XVI provides SSI payments to disabled individuals (including children under age 18) who have limited income and resources. As a needs-based program, many rules apply to SSI benefits after the award.
Am I eligible to apply?
To apply for SSI benefits, you must meet technical requirements. Generally speaking, if you have worked less than half the time for the past 10 years and your current assets are less than $2,000 ($3,000 for a married couple), and you have very low or no current income, you will be eligible to apply. Contact us for a free consultation – we’ll help you find out for sure if you are eligible to apply for Title 16 disability insurance benefits.
What is the process?
Application is the first part of the process. After that, you must be medically approved for benefits. At its simpliest breakdown, the process is Application (33% approved), denial, Request for Reconsideration (12% approved), denial, Request for Hearing, hearing before an administrative law judge (46% approved). Source: SSA ODPMI, January 30, 2017. The time the process takes can vary widely depending on which stage an approval is made and the severity of the medical impairments. Generally, it takes 3 to 5 months for the Application decision; 3 to 4 months for a Reconsideration decision; and 18 to 24 months to get a Hearing before an administrative law judge. (Source: NOSSCR.)
Where can I get more details?
Visit our News page for articles answering many questions our clients have about the disability process.
What is the fee for representation?
In most Social Security disability cases, the attorney or other representative is paid 25% of back benefits awarded, up to a cap set by Federal statutes (the cap is currently $6,000). Typically, you will owe NO ATTORNEY FEE unless and until your claim is approved. You may be responsible for the out-of-pocket costs associated with your case, whether or not you ultimately win. Fees will vary depending on the specific circumstances of your case and the stage of your appeal. We are happy to provide information tailored to your particular case at your FREE initial consultation.
Foothills Disability Law 